Appointments: James Cropper brings in ex-3M man; and more

CUMBRIAN paper maker James Cropper has appointed Douglas Mitchell as a non-executive director.

Mr Mitchell was previously managing director of 3M’s UK and Ireland division having spent several years with the firm in roles including general management, sales, marketing logistics and manufacturing.

Chairman Mark Cropper said of his appointment: “Douglas has direct experience of growing businesses in many sectors relevant to James Cropper PLC and its subsidiaries, not least Technical Fibre Products.

“We are therefore delighted that he is joining our board and we very much look forward to his support as we grow our enterprise in the coming years.”

His appointment began on January 1.

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WARRINGTON-based healthcare property group Assura has appointed David Richardson as a non-executive director.

Mr Richardson is already the Senior Independent Director of Serco Group, chairman of Bilfinger Berger Global Infrastructure and a board member of Frankfurt-based company Worldhotels.

He had previously spent 22 years at Whitbread where he was the strategic planning director for eight years and finance director for four years. During his time with Whitbread, he helped to transform it from a brewing and pubs business into one with interests in hotels, restaurants and leisure clubs.

He will succeed Peter Pichler as the board’s senior independent director and chair of its Audit Committee at the end of the month.

Simon Laffin, non-executive chairman of Assura, said:  “David is a strong addition to the Assura board and we are delighted to appoint someone of his calibre.

“He brings a wealth of both finance and property experience, which will be very valuable following the recent completion of Assura’s transformation to a pure play primary healthcare property company.”

Mr Richardson said: “I am delighted to join the board and look forward to working with Simon and the company as it develops its position in this attractive sector.”